Commercial law functions across a broad spectrum of business and commercial transactions including finance, accounting, management and trade. Often referred to as business law, it is one of the most widely practiced legal areas. Regularly overlapping with other areas of law and engaging many different types of clients, commercial law can offer lawyers a diverse and varied portfolio of work.

Not all roles, however, are the same. When it comes to legal recruitment in corporate law, consider all the options available to you.

– In-house role. Because the focus of it is business, it is an area of legal practice that presents many opportunities for in-house positions. Many businesses employ in-house legal teams or lawyers to deal with their legal issues. In-house legal roles in this area are good positions for lawyers interested in the business world.

– Law firms. Most large law firms offer expertise in commercial contract law, and most will working for these larger firms will be involved in some aspect of contract law. If you’d like to be involved in the nitty gritty of business law and interacting with those involved, smaller or boutique commercial law firms will offer more frontline opportunities. When it comes to commercial law, the age-old dictum proves true for many – bigger is not necessarily better!

– International work. In today’s global world, business often crosses national boundaries. Many commercial lawyers, therefore, will be involved in international business, trade or finance dealings. Commercial law therefore offers the opportunity for lawyers to travel for work. Those looking to relocate overseas, however, will find it harder to find positions where local industry knowledge is often coveted and essential to business dealings.

If you’re interested in commercial law jobs, there are a number of different career prospects and opportunities available to you. Deciding which area and arena of commercial law you would like to work in will help you narrow down your job prospects and choose a role that suits your career objectives.

In the macho environment of the law, to express any lack of confidence, vulnerability or self-doubt has traditionally been regarded as weakness. Many women lawyers who were regarded as reliable and 100% capable suddenly find that their commitment is challenged (through no fault of their own) when they start a family.

So, what would it take for you to become the lawyer you want to be?

Refocus on what is really important to you. Build your resilience and re-energise.

Action Steps

1. Make a list of everything that is important to you about your career. What have you achieved over the last 5 years? What are your strengths and weaknesses? How can you turn you weaknesses into strengths?
2. What would being a lawyer on your terms look like? How would your life be different? Spend 10 minutes thinking and writing down your goals – short, medium and long term
3. List all the things that are likely to block your progress
4. Separate the blocks into those that you can influence and those that you cannot
5. Decide to let go of everything out of your control
6. Concentrate and only use your energy on those things that you can influence
7. Commit to taking one small step every day towards your goals
8. Remember to be successful you need both technical and “soft skill” expertise
9. Review your progress regularly
10. Enlist the help of a mentor (inside or outside your organisation). Use them as a sounding board and cheerleader to spur you on or give you that extra boost when your confidence dips.

Having a basic understanding of commercial law is very important for entrepreneurs who want to succeed in the business world.

Legal matters are usually unavoidable if you are running a company. First off, you will need to follow requirements set by the law for you to be able to operate legally in your area. Other than that, you also have to observe legalities when it comes to dealing with your employees and business contacts.

In many ways, working side by side with a commercial law firm can be for your great advantage. Professional lawyers will be your best source of information and assistance if you want to do things the right way. These specialists have wide knowledge and experience when it comes to handling legal issues, especially those that directly deal with business, property and employment matters.

You may encounter a dispute with another company regarding copyright infringement. In such instances, a commercial lawyer will know what to do and will do his or her best to make sure that your legal rights are observed.

Feeling a little uncertain about a contract you need to sign? Consulting with an attorney is also a wise move. In fact, your lawyer is not only capable of helping you decipher contracts but he or she may also provide assistance if you need to create contracts of your own. They will make sure that no laws will be violated and your best interest will be a priority at the same time.

Sensitive topics such as those regarding shares, share alteration, transfer of shares and share transfer limitations will be thoroughly inspected by these legal practitioners as well. They will make sure that there are no possible loopholes in all your dealings for your own security and protection.

When time comes that you will need to retire, commercial lawyers can help make a smooth transition for business ownership from you to your intended successor. The same can be said in time of unexpected death or other serious circumstances.

To find the best service in your area, try asking for recommendations from those you know in the business community. Many of your associates and contacts have already hired attorneys in the past and you would definitely benefit if you seek referrals from them.

Other than that, you may also do your own research via the internet. Relevant details can be easily accessed as you visit commercial law firm websites.